Where the Creator and creation pray, play, and wonder together
With a new look and renewed energy around Outdoor Ministry, we will continue to utilize online spaces for such things as the Contemplative Gatherings series and deeper conversations about Creation Justice.
We don’t know what Covid-19 has in store for us in 2021, but we are planning some new in-person activities, keeping our fingers crossed that we won’t have to cancel. In the wilds of the unknowns, we continue to plan and prepare. We will work with creation, not against it.
Contemplative Gatherings
The MN Conference Outdoor Ministry will present a three-part Contemplative Gathering to bring us into a place of mindfulness and peace as we enter a change of seasons, a time of thanksgiving, and a time of reflection and anticipation.
With the facilitation of three talented singer-song writers/theological artists, each Zoom gathering will involve story, song, and inspiration – open to all ages, congregations, and leaders. Participate in one, two, or all three; it’s your choice!
Register here for each gathering ($15/event) or register for all three for $30. If you register anyone who is a young adult or youth, use promo code “GROUP50” to receive 50% off your entire group’s registration fee.
Changes – October 17, 10:00 am–noon
A contemplative retreat led by psalmist and musician Richard Bruxvoort Colligan. Learn more about Richard.
Thanksgiving Amidst Struggle – November 14, 10:00 am–noon
A soulful exploration of thanksgiving during challenging times led by Minnesota musician Hans Peterson. Every November people in the United States collectively pause for thanksgiving. How does one remain grateful amidst struggles or loss of any kind whether it be related to a relationship, a job, racial injustice, one’s health, or the health of the planet? In this retreat for people of all ages we will tap into the experiences of the group to explore gratitude using story, music, a game, and conversation. A professional musician for 25 years, Hans lives near Jordan, MN, where he is an intern pastor. He is grateful to be a spouse to Heidi and dad to two boys, Nelson (21) and Simon (16). He enjoys are eating Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, playing ultimate frisbee, cooking with vegetables from his family’s huge garden, and hiking just about anywhere. Learn more about Hans.
Deep in the Darkness, Hidden Seeds – December 13, 6:30–8:30 pm
A contemplative reflection for the Advent season led by singer-songwriter Sara Thomsen. Beyond the busy bustle and the wrapping hustle, we are left with a search for deeper meaning, a longing for home, for loved ones here, loved ones lost, for peace, for comfort, for wars to end, for hearts to mend. We light candles, sing songs, celebrate, mourn, dance, and somehow—deep in the dark and the cold—we wander inward, find a spark, a seed. We kindle hope, and come home. Learn more about Sara.
2021
- Spring Conference Youth Event, April 30-May 2 at Camp Onomia
- Fall Conference Youth Event, October 8-10 at Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center
- Middle School Retreat, July 12-14, Shalom Hill Farm
- High School Retreat, July 17-19, Shalom Hill Farm
- Families Canoe Adventures, three one-day events (dates TBA)
- Women’s Retreats, Wilderness Retreat, September 24-26, plus another TBA
- Men’s Retreat, September 24-26, Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center
